The first step is talk to someone who is
a Ham Radio Operator. They will be able to explain all of the details of Amateur
Radio (Ham). Some people join the hobby to help out in emergency
situations, others lend a hand with charity groups by providing professional
communications for events such as the American Diabetes Walk, The American
Heart Association walks, The New York City Marathon or even fun events like the Mamaroneck
Turkey Trot. Some people just want to talk to others, some join to learn
about communications and emerging technologies, others join to learn how to
make world wide contacts using minimal equipment that one can actually build !

If you are interested in entering the fascinating world of Amateur Radio, please
contact our education director at the following e-mail:
education@weca.org or give a call to 914.741.6606. We will be happy to help you get started with the proper textbooks and additional help to give you the knowledge and confidence you need to pass your FCC
Technician exam.

Just recently, the WECA
club ran an accelerated
study course in White Plains to help those interested in taking the Ham
Radio Technician. The course ran on a Sunday afternoon for four hours and
after the study class, exams were given to the students and many passed after
studying on their own and joining this class.

Stay tuned for the next session which will be listed on the www.weca.org
homepage!

Publications and
sources for Ham Radio study guides:

The American Radio Relay (ARRL) has a
publication called "Now You're Talking"
Technician study manual. For more information on purchasing this book, please
use the link:
ARRL

The W5YI group has a series of books written by
a world famous Ham operator - Gordon West / WB6NOA available at W5YI

The Radio Shack chain of electronic hobbyist
stores carries Ham Radio study guides as well. Please visit the following URL:
Radio
Shack

Meanwhile, if you have a police scanner, please
tune into 147.06 to listen to our repeater system located in Valhalla, NY. The
best time to listen is during morning drive time (7:00 - 9:00 am), afternoon
drive time (4:30 - 6:00 pm) and at night when there are a series of message
relays called "Nets" at 9:30 pm.